The Holy See takes special interest in
consecrated life “deeply rooted in the example and teaching of Christ the Lord,
and a gift of God the Father to his Church through the Holy Spirit” (Vita consecrata
1). In particular, it expresses care for Institutes of Consecrated Life and
Societies of Apostolic Life: their universal presence and the evangelical
character of their witness are decisive elements for the mission of the Church
and her call to communion and holiness (cf. Vita consecrata 9). For
these reasons this Dicastery places great importance on the Report on the Status
and Life of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life which
Supreme Moderators are to send to this Congregation at the time of their General
Chapters. In a clear manner these reports foster communion with the Holy See in
conformity with can. 592 § 1 of the Code of Canon Law. In addition to supplying
useful, factual information, an attentive reading of these reports enhances the
theological, juridical and pastoral reflections of this Congregation for
Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, thus helping to
concretise the service which this Dicastery is called to offer to consecrated
life in these times of social and cultural complexity.

To facilitate the preparation of this informative report, the
Dicastery suggests a series of themes to be covered in order to ensure that the
Report can serve the purpose for which it is sought. Supreme Moderators are
asked either to follow the format of the enclosed brochure “Suggested Guidelines
for the Preparation of Periodic Reports to the Holy See” when preparing the
Document or to send the Report on the Status of the Institute presented to the
Chapter with supplemental information regarding themes that might not be present
in said Report. May the Lord abundantly bless you for your service of leadership
in ecclesial communion. We send heartfelt greetings in the Lord to each member
of your community as together you seek to live Gospel values in your search for
God and His Kingdom.